Let’s be clear: there are no pandas indigenous to Japan. So Lady Gaga’s panda costume, which the singer donned while visiting a Japanese talk show, would be the cultural equivalent of wearing a bald eagle costume in Canada or a kangaroo costume in New Zealand: So close, yet so adorably far away. Despite the slip-up, Gaga’s eye patches and black and white frock were a cute distraction from the incredibly awkward language barrier that has Gaga staring uncomfortably into the camera for 90% of the interview. They should have just had her sit in a cage, nibbling bamboo. She can call it performance art!
On the other hand, maybe it’s Lady Gaga’s lawsuit over her Japanese fund-raising bracelets that has her trying to distract us with her panda claws. The suit claims Gaga profited by adding “shipping charges” to her charity bracelets, despite the promise that all proceeds will go to earthquake relief. Gaga’s rep Holly Shakoor slams the suit, claiming, “This misguided lawsuit is without merit and unfortunately takes attention away from the kind deeds of the fans around the world who are supporting the people of Japan. The entire $5 donation made with the purchase of each bracelet is going to support the disaster relief. No profit is being made on shipping costs.” This had better be a frivolous lawsuit, Gaga, or we’ll…oh, but look at those little hair ears! We can’t stay mad at you for long, Lady Panda-ga. We’re too busy squee-ing!
